Country facts

Sri Lanka is an island country located in South Asia. It is situated in the Indian Ocean, southwest of the Bay of Bengal and southeast of the Arabian Sea. The country is separated from the southern tip of the Indian subcontinent by the Palk Strait, which is approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles) wide. ​​​ Geographically, Sri Lanka can be divided into three main regions: the central highlands, the coastal plains, and the northern and eastern regions. Central Highlands: The central part of Sri Lanka is dominated by a mountainous region known as the Central Highlands. This area is characterized by rugged terrain, deep valleys, and numerous plateaus. The highest point in Sri Lanka, Pidurutalagala, stands at 2,524 meters (8,281 feet) above sea level. The Central Highlands are renowned for their tea plantations and picturesque landscapes. Coastal Plains: Surrounding the island, there are low-lying coastal plains. The western and southern coasts consist of wide sandy beaches, while the eastern coast has a more rugged shoreline. These coastal regions are home to major cities and densely populated areas. Sri Lanka's capital, Colombo, is located on the western coast. Northern and Eastern Regions: The northern and eastern parts of Sri Lanka are relatively flat and consist of a mix of fertile plains and lagoons. These areas were affected by a long-running civil war, which ended in 2009. Since then, the region has been undergoing post-war reconstruction and development. Sri Lanka experiences a tropical monsoon climate, characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. The southwest monsoon, which occurs from May to September, brings heavy rainfall to the southwestern part of the island, while the northeast monsoon, from December to February, affects the northeastern region. In addition to its diverse geography, Sri Lanka is known for its rich biodiversity. The country is home to several national parks and wildlife reserves, where visitors can find a variety of flora and fauna, including elephants, leopards, and a wide range of bird species. Overall, Sri Lanka's location and geography contribute to its scenic beauty, cultural heritage, and ecological significance.

Sri Lanka has a rich and diverse cultural heritage that spans over thousands of years. The country's cultural heritage is influenced by its historical interactions with various civilizations, including indigenous cultures, Indian influences, colonial powers, and its own unique traditions. Here are some notable aspects of Sri Lanka's cultural heritage Ancient Cities and Archaeological Sites: Sri Lanka is home to several ancient cities and archaeological sites that showcase the country's historical roots. The ancient city of Anuradhapura, dating back to the 4th century BCE, was the capital of ancient Sri Lanka and is renowned for its well-preserved stupas, monasteries, and ancient irrigation systems. Other significant sites include Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya (Lion Rock Fortress), and Dambulla Cave Temple, all of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites.A ​ Buddhism: Buddhism has played a significant role in shaping Sri Lanka's culture and society. The country has a long and continuous Buddhist heritage, and it is believed to be one of the oldest Buddhist nations in the world. Ancient monasteries, stupas, and Buddhist sculptures are found throughout the country. The Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy is a sacred Buddhist site that houses a relic of the Buddha's tooth and is an important pilgrimage destination. Traditional Performing Arts: Sri Lanka has a vibrant tradition of performing arts. Traditional dance forms such as Kandyan dance, low-country dance, and Sabaragamuwa dance are characterized by elaborate costumes, rhythmic movements, and storytelling elements. Traditional music, including drumming and folk songs, accompanies these dance forms. The annual Esala Perahera festival in Kandy is a grand procession that showcases traditional dance, music, and beautifully adorned elephants. Ayurveda and Traditional Medicine: Sri Lanka has a long history of traditional medicine practices, particularly Ayurveda. Ayurveda, meaning "the science of life," is a holistic healing system that focuses on maintaining balance and harmony within the body. Sri Lanka is known for its Ayurvedic treatments, herbal remedies, and wellness retreats, which attract visitors seeking natural healing and rejuvenation. Cultural Festivals: Sri Lanka celebrates a multitude of cultural festivals throughout the year, reflecting the country's religious and ethnic diversity. The Sinhala and Tamil New Year, Vesak (celebrating the birth, enlightenment, and death of the Buddha), and Deepavali (Diwali) are among the most widely celebrated festivals. These festivities involve colorful decorations, traditional rituals, music, dance, and feasting. Traditional Crafts: Sri Lanka has a rich tradition of craftsmanship. Skilled artisans produce intricate woodcarvings, exquisite metalwork, colorful handloom textiles, pottery, and basketry. Traditional crafts are often passed down through generations and reflect the cultural heritage of different regions in Sri Lanka. Preserving and promoting Sri Lanka's cultural heritage is a priority for the country. Efforts are made to conserve ancient sites, support traditional arts and crafts, and promote cultural tourism, allowing visitors to explore and appreciate the unique cultural heritage of Sri Lanka.

Sri Lankan tea, also known as Ceylon tea, is renowned worldwide for its high quality and distinctive flavor. It is one of the country's most significant agricultural exports and plays a vital role in Sri Lanka's economy. Here's an overview of Sri Lankan tea History: Tea cultivation in Sri Lanka has a rich history dating back to the 19th century. During the British colonial era, coffee plantations were hit by a devastating disease, leading to the introduction of tea as an alternative crop. Since then, tea production has flourished in Sri Lanka. ​ Growing Regions: Sri Lanka's tea-growing regions are located in the central highlands, which benefit from the ideal climate and elevation for tea cultivation. The major tea-growing districts include Nuwara Eliya, Dimbula, Uva, and Kandy. Each region has its own unique characteristics that contribute to the flavor profile of the tea. Varieties: Sri Lankan tea is primarily made from the Camellia sinensis plant. The main tea types produced in Sri Lanka are black tea, green tea, white tea, and oolong tea. Black tea is the most common and widely consumed variety, known for its robust and full-bodied flavor. Sri Lankan black teas are further categorized into different grades, such as OP (Orange Pekoe), BOP (Broken Orange Pekoe), and FBOP (Flowery Broken Orange Pekoe), based on the size and appearance of the leaves. Flavor Profile: Sri Lankan tea is celebrated for its bright, aromatic, and distinctive flavor. Depending on the region and elevation, teas can vary in taste. High-grown teas from Nuwara Eliya have a delicate and floral flavor, while teas from the mid-grown regions like Dimbula have a balanced and brisk taste. Low-grown teas from areas like Galle and Matara tend to be stronger and more robust. Tea Estates and Plantations: Sri Lanka is dotted with picturesque tea estates and plantations that showcase the country's scenic beauty. Many of these estates welcome visitors and offer guided tours, allowing tourists to witness the tea production process, from plucking the tea leaves to the manufacturing and packaging stages. Some notable tea estates include Pedro Tea Estate, Mackwoods Tea Estate, and Labookellie Tea Centre. Tea Culture: Tea holds a special place in Sri Lankan culture. Sri Lankans often enjoy tea multiple times a day, and it is an integral part of social gatherings and hospitality. The famous "Ceylon High Tea" experience, which includes a selection of teas, sandwiches, scones, and cakes, is a popular tradition in Sri Lanka. Export and Global Reputation: Sri Lankan tea is highly regarded worldwide for its quality and flavor. It is exported to many countries and is especially favored in the Middle East, Europe, and North America. The tea industry contributes significantly to Sri Lanka's economy and provides employment opportunities for thousands of workers. In summary, Sri Lankan tea, known as Ceylon tea, is a prized commodity renowned for its distinct flavor and exceptional quality. From the lush tea estates to the teacups enjoyed by locals and tea enthusiasts worldwide, Sri Lankan tea is an integral part of the country's heritage and contributes to its global reputation as a tea-producing nation.

Sri Lanka, officially known as the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, is an island country located in South Asia. It is situated in the Indian Ocean, southeast of the Indian subcontinent. Sri Lanka has a total land area of approximately 65,610 square kilometers (25,330 square miles), making it a relatively small nation in terms of landmass. The country has a maximum length of about 432 kilometers (268 miles) from north to south and a maximum width of about 224 kilometers (139 miles) from east to west. The coastline of Sri Lanka stretches for approximately 1,340 kilometers (832 miles). Despite its relatively small size, Sri Lanka is known for its diverse geographical features. The central part of the country consists of a mountainous region known as the Central Highlands, which includes Pidurutalagala, the highest point in Sri Lanka at 2,524 meters (8,281 feet) above sea level. The Central Highlands are surrounded by plains and coastal lowlands, with numerous rivers and water bodies scattered across the island. In terms of comparison, Sri Lanka is slightly larger than the U.S. state of West Virginia or Ireland, and it is about half the size of the U.S. state of Maine. It's important to note that geographical sizes are subject to measurement variations and there may be slight discrepancies in reported figures.

Sri Lanka boasts a remarkable level of biodiversity despite its relatively small size. The country's diverse geography, favorable climate, and isolation have resulted in a wide array of ecosystems and species. Here are some key aspects of Sri Lanka's biodiversity. Flora: Sri Lanka is home to a rich variety of plant life, including numerous endemic species found nowhere else on Earth. The country has a high level of endemism in its plant species, particularly in the wet zone forests and highlands. The Sinharaja Forest Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a prime example of a tropical rainforest with exceptional biodiversity. ​Fauna: Sri Lanka has a diverse range of animal species, many of which are endemic. The country is famous for its populations of Asian elephants, which can be found in several national parks, including Udawalawe and Minneriya. Sri Lanka is also home to leopards, sloth bears, sambar deer, wild boars, and various species of primates such as the toque macaque and purple-faced langur. The coastal waters surrounding the island are inhabited by dolphins, whales, sea turtles, and a variety of marine life.​ ​ Birds: Sri Lanka is a birdwatcher's paradise, boasting over 400 bird species, including both resident and migratory birds. The island is recognized as an important bird area due to its diverse habitats, such as wetlands, forests, and coastal areas. Endemic bird species include the Sri Lanka junglefowl, Sri Lanka grey hornbill, crimson-fronted barbet, and Sri Lanka blue magpie.​ ​ Reptiles and Amphibians: Sri Lanka has a high diversity of reptiles and amphibians, with over 100 species of snakes, including venomous and non-venomous varieties. The country is also home to several species of lizards, including the endemic Sri Lankan horned lizard. Sri Lanka's amphibians are equally impressive, with a variety of frogs and caecilians found in different habitats. ​ Marine Biodiversity: Sri Lanka's coastal waters are rich in marine biodiversity. Coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangrove forests provide habitats for a wide range of marine species, including colorful reef fish, turtles, rays, and various invertebrates. The island's waters are also frequented by migratory species such as whales and dolphins. Conservation efforts are in place to protect Sri Lanka's biodiversity. The country has established a network of national parks, wildlife reserves, and protected areas to preserve its natural heritage. These areas provide opportunities for eco-tourism and research, contributing to the appreciation and conservation of Sri Lanka's remarkable biodiversity.

Here is a list of public holidays observed in Sri Lanka. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list, and there might be additional regional or cultural holidays celebrated in specific areas or communities. 1. New Year's Day - January 1 2. Tamil Thai Pongal Day - January 14 3. National Day - February 4 4. Mahasivarathri - February/March (date varies) 5. Sinhala and Tamil New Year - April 13/14 6. Good Friday - April (date varies) 7. Bak Full Moon Poya Day - April/May (date varies) 8. Labor Day - May 1 9. Vesak Full Moon Poya Day - May (date varies) 10. Id-ul-Fitr (Ramadan Festival) - Date varies based on the Islamic lunar calendar 11. Poson Full Moon Poya Day - June (date varies) 12. Esala Full Moon Poya Day - July/August (date varies) 13. Nikini Full Moon Poya Day - August (date varies) 14. Id-ul-Alha (Hajj Festival) - Date varies based on the Islamic lunar calendar 15. Binara Full Moon Poya Day - September/October (date varies) 16. Deepavali (Diwali) - October/November (date varies) 17. Il Full Moon Poya Day - November (date varies) 18. National Day of Tamil Eelam - November 27 19. Unduvap Full Moon Poya Day - December (date varies) 20. Christmas Day - December 25